
5-Amino-1MQ is a small molecule research compound that acts as a highly selective inhibitor of nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT), an enzyme involved in the regulation of cellular methylation and NAD⁺ metabolism. NNMT catalyses the methylation of nicotinamide (vitamin B3), diverting it away from the NAD⁺ salvage pathway and thereby limiting NAD⁺ availability within the cell. Elevated NNMT activity has been linked to metabolic dysfunction, obesity, insulin resistance, certain cancers, and age-related decline in mitochondrial function.
By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ helps to preserve intracellular nicotinamide, allowing for continued recycling into NAD⁺ via the salvage pathway. NAD⁺ is a central cofactor for mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and sirtuin activation, and its maintenance is essential for healthy energy metabolism, DNA repair, and cellular longevity. Restoration of NAD⁺ balance through NNMT inhibition has made 5-Amino-1MQ a molecule of significant interest across multiple areas of research.
Metabolic Health and Obesity
Studies in animal models have shown that NNMT inhibition with 5-Amino-1MQ reduces fat mass, increases energy expenditure, and improves glucose tolerance.
By preserving NAD⁺ availability, 5-Amino-1MQ supports mitochondrial efficiency, allowing for improved utilisation of energy substrates.
This has made it a valuable tool in exploring potential therapeutic strategies for obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
Insulin Sensitivity and Glucose Regulation
NNMT overexpression is associated with impaired insulin signalling.
Research on 5-Amino-1MQ suggests improvements in insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control, indicating its importance in studies of pre-diabetes and metabolic dysfunction.
Ageing and Longevity Science
NAD⁺ levels naturally decline with age, leading to impaired mitochondrial function, reduced sirtuin activity, and increased susceptibility to age-related diseases.
By inhibiting NNMT and sparing NAD⁺, 5-Amino-1MQ provides a promising angle for research into cellular resilience, mitochondrial biogenesis, and healthy ageing.
This places it in a similar category of interest to NAD⁺ precursors (such as NR and NMN) but with a unique upstream mechanism of action.
Cancer and Fibrosis Research
NNMT is overexpressed in a range of cancers (including pancreatic, lung, and gastric cancers), where it promotes tumour progression, angiogenesis, and epigenetic reprogramming.
NNMT activity has also been implicated in pathological fibrosis in organs such as the liver and kidneys.
5-Amino-1MQ is therefore being investigated as a research tool for studying epigenetic regulation, tumour metabolism, and fibrotic disease progression.
Neuroprotection and Cognitive Function
NAD⁺ plays a vital role in neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and resistance to neurodegeneration.
Preclinical investigations have suggested that NNMT inhibition may protect against neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, making 5-Amino-1MQ of interest in studies of Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other neurodegenerative conditions.
5-Amino-1MQ represents a novel and highly targeted approach to manipulating cellular NAD⁺ levels. Unlike NAD⁺ precursors, which supply substrates for the salvage pathway, 5-Amino-1MQ works by preventing NNMT from depleting nicotinamide. This dual action — conserving nicotinamide and boosting NAD⁺ — highlights its potential in research related to metabolism, ageing, mitochondrial health, oncology, and neuroprotection.
Because of its broad involvement in fundamental cellular processes, 5-Amino-1MQ has attracted strong interest as a research tool for exploring the molecular mechanisms underpinning energy balance, cellular resilience, and age-related functional decline.
• Synonyms: 5-Amino-1MQ, NNMT inhibitor 5-Amino-1MQ
• Molecular formula: C₁₀H₁₁N₂⁺
• IUPAC Condensed Amino Acid Sequence: N/A
• Molecular Weight: Approximately 159.21g/mol
• CAS Number: 42464-96-0
• PubChem CID: Not published
• Further references: Not published
Stability: Store lyophilised protein at -20°c. Aliquot the product after reconstitution to avoid repeated freezing/thawing cycles. Reconstituted protein can be stored at 4°c for a limited period of time. The lyophilised protein remains stable until expiry date when stored at -20°c. For more information about storage, click here
Source: Biosynthesis
Reconstitution: Soluble in DMSO and ethanol; limited solubility in pure water, improved solubility in Bacteriostatic water
Usage: Product is prepared for LABORATORY RESEARCH ONLY. 5-Amino-1MQ for sale at Pure Peptides UK is limited to scientific research and education only – Only buy 5-Amino-1MQ if you are a licenced researcher.
* Images for illustration purposes only
| Weight | 6 g |
|---|---|
| Cap Colour | White |